Overview

The Visual Development programme at Academy of Art University provides students with a comprehensive platform to refine their artistic voice and technical expertise. This master’s level course is designed for individuals seeking to excel in the competitive world of entertainment design and concept art. By engaging with professional-standard technology and collaborative projects, students develop the necessary skills to meet the demands of modern industry employers.

Why Visual Development at Academy of Art University?

The institution is renowned for its "no barriers" approach to education, ensuring that creative talent is nurtured through hands-on experience and professional mentorship. Students benefit from access to exceptional facilities, including specialised painting studios, equipment labs, and a dedicated bronze foundry. The curriculum is powered by collaborations with industry clients, allowing learners to work on real-world briefs and graduate with a career-ready portfolio that stands out to major global studios.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 33426 per year
National fee: USD 26586 per year
Local fee: USD 26586 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum focuses on the fundamental and advanced aspects of design, storytelling, and technical execution. Modules may include:

Visual Development
Painting
Anatomy
Sculpture
Printmaking
Multimedia Art
Traditional Animation
Digital Design

Careers with Visual Development

Graduates from this programme are equipped to pursue high-level roles within the global entertainment and design sectors. Alumni have successfully secured positions at prestigious organisations such as Disney Theatrical Group, Warner Bros. Discovery, and Lincoln Motor Company. Common career paths include roles as concept artists, technical designers, design managers, and visual development artists, with many graduates winning industry awards and leading creative teams in major studios.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Figurative Concepts

Head Drawing

Color Theory

History of Visual Development

Story Development

Clothed Figure Drawing

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 36 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-09-02 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-08-24 00:00:00
Starting 2027-01-28 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-19 00:00:00

Language

English

Credits

63 SCH

Delivered

On Campus, Online

Campus Location

San Francisco, United States

Disciplines

Visual Arts Painting & Drawing View 44 other Masters in Painting & Drawing in United States

Join for free or log in to access our complete career info list.

Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

We are not aware of any English requirements for this programme.

Other requirements

General requirements

Application form or online application
$50 application fee
Official transcripts from your undergraduate college or university showing completion of an undergraduate degree.
Resume
Portfolio

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

33426 USD / year

≈ 33426 USD / year
Out-of-State

26586 USD / year

≈ 26586 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

26586 USD / year

≈ 26586 USD / year

Additional Details

Graduate Tuition (Domestic Students): $1,407/unit – 3 units per class

Graduate Tuition (International Students): $1,615/unit – 3 units per class

Living costs

San Francisco

United States

2206 - 4119 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Need help with your student visa?

Get Visa Support

Get personalized guidance from a certified VFS Global advisor and save 20% through Studyportals.

Avoid common visa mistakes and delays
Know exactly what documents you need
Get a clear checklist tailored to your situation

In order for us to give you accurate scholarship information, we ask that you please confirm a few details and create an account with us.

Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Visual Development.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

On this page

About